Autism and ADHD Pathway

Steps you can expect - from early support to full assessment - and how families, schools, and health professionals work together to make sure the right help is given.

Introduction

We continually review the Neurodevelopmental Pathway (also known as Autism and/or ADHD Pathway) for children, young people and families in Somerset.

Our commitment is to listen to a range of people across Somerset to make sure that any changes we make, are done collaboratively so they accurately reflect the needs and knowledge of everyone.

Principles

The core principles of the pathway are:

  • Any approaches must be child and young person centred and based on need rather than a diagnosis
  • A multidisciplinary approach is used at each step
  • There is a consistent approach in the use of screening and diagnostic assessment tools across Somerset
  • Information is securely stored so that it is accessible to each part of the system involved in the child or young person’s care
  • Pre and post ‘diagnostic’ assessment strategies and support are identified and agreed.

Useful Videos

Mary from the Children and Young People’s Neurodevelopmental Partnership talks through the request for an assessment and what the assessment looks like.

Part of
Autism and ADHD Pathway: Step by step

What you can expect when going through the Autism and/or ADHD Assessment Pathway

1Pre Assessment Autism and ADHD Pathway

Receiving support at the earliest stage without the need for a diagnosis. Making a smooth transition to assessment for those who require it.

  1. Supporting neurodivergence at the earliest opportunity
  2. Support and training for SENCOs on Autism and ADHD
  3. Myths busting of assessment and diagnosis

2Assessment

Equality of access and service quality across the county ensuring NICE compliant assessments for those who require it.

  1. Neurodevelopmental Next Steps Form
  2. Autism Assessments for 0 to 5 year olds (pre-school)
  3. Neurodevelopmental Assessments for 5 to 17 year olds (school age)
  4. Neurodevelopmental Assessments for adults (over 18 years)
  5. Moving into or out of Somerset
  6. Position statement on private Autism and ADHD Assessments
  7. Position statement on Demand Avoidance
  8. Position statement on assessment and diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

3Post Assessment Autism and ADHD Pathway

Appropriate support for those who receive a diagnosis, and signposting for those who don't.

  1. Continuing to support neurodivergence
  2. Support after an ADHD diagnosis
  3. ADHD medicines shortage
  4. Supporting children and young people who are demand avoidant
  5. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder support
  6. What if I don’t agree?

Last updated: October 24, 2025

Next review due: April 24, 2026

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